No one believes anyone in the City of Lies? Why would you? In the City of Lies, every child has their tongue cut out when they turn thirteen to appease the Ajungo Empire and make sure its meagre supply of water isn’t cut off. Tutu is days away from turning thirteen, and in his desperate attempt to save his mother, he volunteers to travel outside his city to bring back water for his people. But the desert is merciless, and Tutu might not be able to survive the brutal secrets hidden within its sand.
Another goldmine was found through Twitter once again. The Lies of the Ajungo seems like an innocent story of a young boy whose love for his mother sends him on an excursion beyond what he’s ever known. Once Tutu settles into his journey, he soon learns the deep injustice and lies has kept his people from truly living. The Ajungo Empire’s so-called help is not what it seems, and their stain on its people shatters Tutu’s innocence. An extremely intriguing form of magic is introduced, and the fantasy setting feels remarkable. The Lies of the Ajungo is really about Tutu’s journey, both physically and emotionally, and his growth makes you proud.
Packed into just 80 pages is a powerful story of a boy doing almost anything to bring peace to his city and save his mother, Tutu’s story almost feels restricted by its story length, bursting with beautiful details and gut-wrenching emotions. The Lies of the Ajungo is a stunning story that packs a hefty punch, prepare for emotions; it hits you hard.
as told by zaheerah 